See and hear me inspire my audiences

Authors, educators and advocates Emily Iland and her son, Thomas, who has been diagnosed with autism, are leaders in the autism field.

Back in 1995, Emily’s fears about what would happen if her son had an encounter with the police, especially when he started driving, propelled her to get together with other moms to start training the police about autism.

Emily developed an evidence-based training for the police called Experience Autism. It uses simulation activities to help officers understand what it feels like to have different features of autism, and discover how to help. You can watch her film, BE SAFE The Movie.

Additionally, Tom speaks to his peers in his book Come to Life! Your Guide to Self Discovery on how to know, love and be themselves as he guides them through the process of self-discovery that will allow them to ultimately find their niche and their voice to become their best selves.

Together, this mother-son duo are making a huge difference in our communities through autism awareness.

You can find Tom at the Inclusion Institute conference on July 24th at the Westwood Conference Center, 1800, Westwood Center Boulevard, Wausau, WI 54401

Diagnosed with autism at age 13, Tom has worked hard to achieve his goals: learning to drive, living on his own, graduating from college, getting full-time work and having a girlfriend. Tom recently left his career as a certified public accountant (CPA) to educate, inspire and motivate people through his writing and presentations. Tom is excited to share what he has learned about life in his award winning book, Come to Life, helping others learn to know themselves, love themselves and become their best selves.

Thanks to Autism Spectrum Therapies and Rob Haupt for this great Spring 2015 interview! We touched on many topics including how to overcome some of the obstacles associated with ASD and the benefits of seeing the ability in disability! Click HERE to listen to Tom’s inspirational podcast.

Understanding the Nature of Bullying by Emily Iland M.A. and Thomas W. Iland, B.S., CPA.
When I was younger I was bullied because other kids thought I was “different.” In the September issue of Exceptional Parent Magazine we explore some of the motivations behind bullying and suggest 4 novel ways to fight it!

The Benefits of Dual Enrollment by Emily Iland M.A. and Thomas W. Iland, B.S., CPA.
Thanks Exceptional Parent Magazine for publishing our story in which we point out the advantages of “dual enrollment,” taking community college courses while still in high school. This can be a great part of transition for students with autism and other special needs.

Tom Iland helps police officers understand how to interact in the field with someone with autism. It’s extremely important to help police understand how individuals with autism would react to common police demands and questions.